02/23/26
Gadsden State Expands Workforce Training Partnership Supporting Anniston Munitions Center Employees
Gadsden, Ala. — Gadsden State Community College is strengthening its workforce training efforts by providing Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A training and Hazardous Materials Entry-Level Driver Training at no cost to employees of companies located in Alabama, an opportunity that the Anniston Munitions Center has taken advantage of through the College’s Skills for Success Innovation Program.
Several Anniston Munitions Center employees, who work at the Anniston Army Depot as a tenant organization, have completed CDL Class A training through Gadsden State. Participants also completed Hazmat ELDT theory through the College. All training was provided at no cost to either the employee or the employer.
Interest in the program has continued to grow following early participation. After completing the training, one employee shared the opportunity with colleagues, leading to additional referrals within the Anniston Munitions Center. Gadsden State currently has one Anniston Munitions Center employee enrolled in the CDL program, with plans for additional participants in upcoming classes.
In recognition of the partnership, the Anniston Munitions Center presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Mr. Darrell Horton, recognizing his outstanding service and dedication to the Anniston Munitions Center. The certificate highlighted Horton’s leadership and pivotal contributions to the Gadsden State Commercial Driver’s License initiative, noting that his efforts directly enabled five Anniston Munitions Center employees to obtain CDL licenses. The Anniston Munitions Center previously recognized Ms. Shayondra Griffin of Gadsden State for her exceptional administrative support.
“This partnership is a strong example of how Gadsden State is helping employers meet workforce needs while removing financial barriers for employees,” said Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College. “By offering no-cost CDL and HAZMAT training, we are supporting career advancement for workers and strengthening the regional workforce.”
The training opportunities offered through Gadsden State are supported by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center. As a division of the ACCS, the Innovation Center brings together the state’s community colleges, business and industry, and community partners to deliver rapid, industry-recognized, non-credit training in some of Alabama’s most in-demand career fields. Through initiatives like this, the Innovation Center is committed to building a skilled workforce by expanding access to high-quality training that prepares individuals for long-term career success.
“Our partnership with Gadsden State Community College is a critical force multiplier for our mission. This program provides our valued employees with essential, no-cost training to further their careers, which in turn directly enhances our operational readiness and safety. By equipping our team with the necessary CDL and HAZMAT certifications, Gadsden State is making a direct and meaningful investment in the Anniston Munitions Center and the security of our nation's warfighters," said Lt. Col. Steve Wallace, ANMC commander.
Various Anniston Munitions Center roles require a CDL with a HAZMAT endorsement to support the safe transport of materials. Following the 2022 Department of Transportation changes requiring Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), the added Theory of Driving and HAZMAT courses increased the overall cost of obtaining a CDL. As a result, utilizing the Gadsden State CDL Initiative Program benefits both the organization and individual employees by offering a lower overall cost than external options and significantly reduces employees’ initial out-of-pocket expenses.
Gadsden State’s CDL program provides hands-on instruction and requires safety training designed to prepare participants for immediate entry into the transportation and logistics workforce.
For more information about workforce training opportunities at Gadsden State, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/Skills-Training.
